GEORGE TOWN: Not to overlook the smaller scale projects in Penang that require funding, the Federal Government has approved RM11mil to enhance and repair a Bayan Lepas health clinic.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said there were some small projects that were important to the people.

"The clinic in Bayan Lepas needs RM11mil and I have approved it immediately," he said to the press after a closed-door briefing with Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and other state representatives on the development of the state, at Komtar on Friday (April 5).

Anwar then shared that Chow and the state government raised several issues that needed to be prioritised.

"What is important is that the state government knows that the Federal Government is aware of some of the projects.

"Decisions have been made, which include the Penang International Airport (PIA) project.

"It needs to be expedited because it (the airport) is crowded and the project has been delayed for a long time.

“Similarly, the light rail transit (LRT) project is being expedited, with the help of the Federal Government, based on our plans," he said.

Earlier on Friday (April 5), Anwar made a surprise visit to PIA, stating that he had taken note of the facilities that needed improvement.

Anwar also shared that the state was expected to totally eliminate hardcore poverty as of June 1 this year.

He said it is a proud achievement as the Federal Government has been focusing on eradicating hardcore poverty.

“Priority is given to the hardcore poor families and with the cooperation of the state government and the Implementation Coordination Unit, it has been resolved within a month.

“This means that by June 1, Penang will record zero hardcore poverty,” he said.

Anwar said the focus is placed on the state government's implementation of driving economic growth involving high-capacity sectors like microchips and Artificial Intelligence that have received international recognition.

"We should work together (Penang and the Federal Government) as well as encourage businesses at the grassroots level to ensure that people have the opportunity to progress together in Penang.

"We raised the issue of agriculture and fishermen during the meeting which the Federal Government will look into as well," he said.